If you’re upgrading or installing a new climate control system in your home, you may be wondering what your best options are. Should you purchase a traditional air conditioner, an air handler, or a combination of the two? Find out what each one does so you can make the right choice for your needs.
Is an Air Handler Same as AC?
There are plenty of different approaches to setting up an effective HVAC system. But how do air handling units work in comparison to air conditioners? The answer is simple!
What Is an Air Handler?
Your home’s heating and cooling system relies on air being moved in and out of your home efficiently. That’s where air handlers come in. They’re typically found inside rather than outside like air conditioners, and they contain powerful internal blowers that move hot or cold air in and out of the house.
Air handling units also contain filters to remove dust and debris, and an indoor coil to help maintain temperature. Most people mistake these units for furnaces due to their similar appearance, but they actually work best in conjunction with air conditioners and heat pumps to control the ambient temperature.
Image from Twin City Fan
How Do Air Conditioners Work?
Air conditioners are typically found outside of most houses, and you might be surprised as to what their job really is. Rather than generating cold air to pump into your house, air conditioners actually remove the hot air.
The warm air passes over refrigerant coils which removes heat, resulting in cooler air reentering your home. Modern air conditioners have are much more technically advanced that they once were, but the basic process of removing heat is still at the core of every AC.
Pairing Your Air Conditioner
Air conditioners cannot do the job of cooling, heating, and moving air throughout your home. That’s why most air conditioners are split-system models that are paired with a gas furnace or air handling unit. But is an air handler same as furnace?
Both models do different things, and choosing the right one for you depends on the climate where you live. If you’re in a warmer climate, you should use an air conditioner along with a handler for the sake of cost and efficiency. Homes in colder regions are better off using a furnace though for more powerful heating while using less electricity.
Looking to upgrade your home’s heating and air system? Visit Appliance & A/C Parts Today for your new air handling unit!
